Key Points
- Updated EP Criteria: Starting January 1, 2025, Singapore will implement new COMPASS criteria for Employment Pass (EP) applications and renewals.
- Key Updates Include:
- C1 Salary: Revised salary benchmarks based on sector-specific market conditions.
- C2 Qualifications: Updates to the lists of 20-point institutions and 10-point professional qualifications.
- C5 Shortage Occupation List (SOL): New Semiconductor industry occupations added to address labor shortages.
- Self-Assessment Tool: Applicants must use the updated Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) before submitting EP applications.
Overview
Singapore has announced updates to the COMPASS criteria for Employment Pass (EP) applications, which will take effect starting January 1, 2025. These changes align EP eligibility requirements with evolving market conditions, ensuring that Singapore continues attracting highly qualified foreign talent while addressing sector-specific workforce demands.
The C1 Salary criterion has been revised to reflect updated salary benchmarks across different sectors. These adjustments ensure that salaries remain competitive and relevant to market rates, supporting Singapore’s efforts to attract skilled professionals.
Under C2 Qualifications, Singapore has refreshed the lists of eligible institutions and professional certifications. Applicants with qualifications from 20-point institutions or 10-point professional certifications will benefit from enhanced scoring under the COMPASS framework, encouraging the recruitment of top-tier global talent.
The C5 Shortage Occupation List (SOL) has been expanded to include new occupations, specifically within the Semiconductor industry, a critical sector experiencing labor shortages. Singapore aims to bolster its position as a global hub for innovation and technology by targeting high-demand roles.
Employers and applicants must use the updated Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to check eligibility before submitting new or renewal EP applications. This ensures that applications align with the revised criteria, improving efficiency and compliance within the EP approval process.
The COMPASS framework, first implemented for new EP applications in September 2023 and renewals from September 2024, is a points-based system that evaluates candidates based on key factors, including salary, qualifications, and sector-specific demand. These 2025 updates reflect Singapore’s commitment to maintaining a robust and adaptable workforce.
Looking Ahead
The updated COMPASS criteria for 2025 underscore Singapore’s focus on attracting top global talent while addressing the needs of critical industries like Semiconductors. Employers hiring EP holders should review the revised benchmarks and updated qualification lists to ensure compliance with the new requirements.
Companies are encouraged to utilize the updated Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) early to determine eligibility and avoid delays in the EP application process. Businesses operating in sectors affected by the expanded Shortage Occupation List should utilize the targeted recruitment opportunities to address workforce gaps.
As Singapore continues refining its work visa framework, staying informed about changes to the COMPASS system will be essential for HR professionals and businesses seeking to attract and retain foreign talent in a competitive labor market.
